Lip Filler

How it works

After numbing, the doctor injects small amounts of soft gel into the lips, using a fine needle or a cannula. The gel can add volume, define the border, or support the shape of the upper and lower lip. Swelling in the first days can make the lips look larger than the final result. The gel slowly breaks down over months, and the length of effect varies by product and person. If you do not like the result, hyaluronic acid lip filler can often be broken down with an enzyme injection.

Who it may suit

• Lips that look thin or have lost fullness
• Uneven lips where one side or one lip is smaller
• A softer outline or smoother lines around the mouth
• People who want a gradual, adjustable change

The treatment day

1. Describe the look you want. Show reference photos and say which words describe your goal, such as soft, subtle or defined.
2. Numbing. Numbing cream is applied, and many products also contain a local anesthetic.
3. Injection. Small amounts of gel are placed step by step, with pauses to check shape and symmetry.
4. Check and aftercare. You see the result in a mirror before leaving and receive written advice.

Aftercare

• Avoid pressing, pinching or massaging the lips unless told to.
• Skip intense exercise, saunas and very hot drinks for the first day.
• Avoid lipstick for the period the doctor suggests, since the skin has tiny puncture points.
• Sleep with your head slightly raised for the first night or two.
• Report severe pain, blue or white patches, or sores right away.

Things to know first

• Swelling, bruising and lumpiness are common for several days. Lips may feel tight or uneven at first.
• Rare but serious risks include vascular occlusion, where filler blocks a blood vessel and can damage tissue.
• Cold sores can be triggered. Tell the doctor if you get them, as a preventive medicine may be suggested.
• Infection and allergic reactions are possible. Not usually advised during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Too much filler can look unnatural, and results vary by person.

Talking through lip filler in English

Bring two or three photos of lips you like and one of what you do not want. Then use simple words: I want more shape, not much size. Say whether you care most about the upper lip, lower lip, outline or smile lines. Ask the doctor to point out, on your own face, what they plan to change and what they will leave alone.

Ask which product will be used, how much, and in which parts of the lips. Ask whether the plan is to start small. Tell the doctor about past lip filler, cold sores, allergies to lidocaine and any blood-thinning medicine or supplements. If you have a trip or event coming, say the dates, because swelling and bruising may last several days.

Terms you may hear: vermilion (the colored part of the lip), cupid's bow, philtrum, border definition and hyaluronidase. Ask for the product name in writing and which signs mean you should call or seek urgent care while you are away from Seoul.